〈interview〉
Last December, under crisp and refreshing winter skies, ceramic artist Natsumi Muroi visited REN’s Kuramae store on a beautiful day when the nearby ginkgo trees were at their peak.
Through her charming creations, Muroi brings warmth and gentle moments to those who encounter her work. We had the pleasure of speaking with her about her creative philosophy, how she crossed paths with REN, and the bag she loves to use every day.
I can’t help but notice those fleeting moments when people’s expressions reveal a sudden realization.
Just gazing at Muroi’s work brings a gentle smile, as if it effortlessly melts away any tension. There’s a warmth that seems to embrace both joy and sorrow, offering quiet reassurance.
Her creations—cups, plates, chopstick rests, and brooches, each a unique one-of-a-kind piece—depict charming scenes of animals living alongside people, sharing meals, or setting out on little adventures. Each piece tells its own quiet, heartwarming story.
Muroi shares, "For example, in this ‘Puka Puka Series,’ when you pour a drink, the character appears to be floating on the surface. I love seeing that moment when people suddenly notice these little details—their expressions of surprise and delight. It’s such a great look. That’s why I’d be so happy if people used my pieces in a relaxed, everyday way."
"The stories that Muroi’s pieces evoke, as well as how they are used, vary from person to person. That freedom in her craftsmanship is what makes her work so special," says Akimoto, a buyer at REN.
So far, REN has hosted three POP-UP SHOP events featuring Muroi’s creations, showcasing her uniquely charming works.
REN buyer Akimoto:
"I first encountered Muroi’s work through gifts from friends. One gave me a brooch, and another gifted me a tenugui. At the time, I didn’t realize they were both by the same artist.
As time passed and I became more familiar with Muroi’s work—seeing her exhibitions and exploring her various creations—I was once again captivated by her humorous and effortlessly charming world.
The first piece I purchased for myself, I actually ended up gifting to someone else. I just hoped it would bring a little smile to their face."
Whether it’s a quiet moment of relaxation on a day off or a small chuckle sparked by a glance at a piece, Muroi’s work has a way of gently reminding us to pause amid the busyness of everyday life.
We hope that when you hold one of her creations in your hands, you’ll feel the same warmth and calm—like taking a deep breath and letting yourself unwind.
It stays beautiful without fading over time.
Muroi has always been a fan of leather goods. The REN Canister Bottle she now cherishes was a piece she discovered at the Kuramae store about a year ago.
Torn between Mimosa and Blue Haze, she deliberated for quite some time. In the end, she even called over a friend who happened to be nearby for tea to help her decide. After much thought, Mimosa was the final choice.
Muroi:
"I own several leather bags, but this Canister Bottle was the first time I bought something so colorful. With leather, I usually enjoy the way camel or black tones change over time, but this one stays beautiful without fading or transferring color. It introduced me to a whole new side of leather. Plus, it pairs well with my favorite outfits, so I’m really glad I chose this color."
Lighter and More Spacious Than Expected
With its simple design without inner pockets, the Canister Bottle naturally closes with the weight of its contents—a feature that adds to its charm.
As Muroi shared her thoughts, she began taking out the items from her bag. Soon, the table was lined with her smartphone, wallet, a paperback book, and a handmade plush toy.
Muroi:
"It holds way more than I expected. I can go anywhere with just this one bag, and I use it all year round. Leather bags often have the drawback of being heavy, but this one is incredibly light. I never have to think, ‘I want to use this bag with today’s outfit, but it might be too heavy for a long day out.’ That kind of dilemma just doesn’t happen with this bag."
Muroi’s Canister Bottle is made from "En", a cowhide leather treated with micro-pigment dye. While cowhide is typically thick and firm, the shrink processing gives it a soft, supple finish.
This leather is highly pigmented, resistant to fading, and less prone to water stains, making it incredibly easy to care for—even for those new to leather.
For the 25SS season, the Canister Bottle series will be available in a diverse range of materials, including "En," "Still," and "Hallie." Stay tuned for the latest styles!
During the interview, the conversation took a delightful detour as Muroi shared stories about her son, who is deeply passionate about vintage clothing, leather goods, and woodworking.
Having grown up watching his parents carefully maintain and cherish their belongings, he seems to have developed a strong appreciation for timeless pieces that resonate with him personally, rather than being swayed by trends. The entire staff listened with great interest, captivated by his thoughtful approach to objects and craftsmanship.
-PROFILE-
Natsumi Muroi
Ceramic Artist
Natsumi Muroi captures small, everyday moments and brings them to life with humor through her illustrations and ceramic works. Her unique, whimsical world has earned a devoted following both in Japan and abroad, bringing smiles to those who encounter her creations.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/natsumi_muroi
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